What software should I use to create a parametric model of a bicycle and have the software generate plan views I can send to a welder/framebuilder. [more inside]
posted by sibilatorix
on Apr 25, 2016 -
4 answers

I have a pannier and bicycle, and I need to mount the one to the other. The bike is a ~1985 Schwinn and the pannier is a Blackburn EX. I’ve tried a Blackburn MTN rack, but my heels bump the bag. Ideally it’d be about 4-6 inches further back and still level along the top (currently tilts slightly back). Do racks come in different sizes I need to know? Are there some bike/bag combos that don’t work? Do people shorten their cranks instead of moving the bags? Is there some crucial measurement I should learn?
posted by migurski
on May 16, 2015 -
10 answers

I was considering buying an Electra Townie Go, the electric version of the Townie, but I've gotten some feedback that it's ridiculously overpriced for an electric bike ($2200+ where most electrics are less than $1500) and that the battery is very weak. Are there other pedal-forward electric bikes? [more inside]
posted by IndigoRain
on May 26, 2014 -
5 answers

I've been thinking for a while about getting another bike. I have one bike that I like very much, but it's not as comfortable as I'd like for longer rides and so I tend not to ride as often as I otherwise might. I'm looking for a more relaxed and comfortable bike that will get me out on the road more often without too much sacrifice in speed. Requirements inside, recommendations appreciated. [more inside]
posted by Scientist
on Oct 21, 2013 -
11 answers

I have a commuter bike with no suspension and light tread tires. i have taken it on light mountain bike trails, and it handles well, but the jarring caused by a lack of suspension is killing me. i was wondering how practical/possible it would be to buy a second suspension fork and knobby(er) tire and switch the forks depending on whether i want to ride on concrete or a trail. [more inside]
posted by camdan
on Oct 3, 2013 -
15 answers

We just moved back to London, joy! But our very heavy Dutch style bike does not lend itself to our new flat. What is your advice for finding a light compact bike relatively cheaply, ethically sourced? [more inside]
posted by jujulalia
on Aug 29, 2013 -
10 answers

Please suggest bike routes in New England that meet some specific criteria. We took our son on a section of the East Bay Bike Path near Providence for his first bike ride last week and he loved it. He sits in an iBert on Mom's bike. We are looking for similar routes. In looking for similar I articulate what specifically I think is good about this path for us in the extended explanation. We can ride weekdays in addition to weekends. Thanks. [more inside]
posted by safetyfork
on Jun 25, 2012 -
11 answers

If I wanted to make a paying hobby out of restoring and updating old bikes, what are some resources that would help me improve my skills, research the right bikes/components, and find the right places to buy them? [more inside]
posted by Scientist
on Jun 11, 2012 -
22 answers

I'd like to buy a new road bike and I think I have a general idea what I'm looking for (aluminum, Tiagra, WSD). Within that class of bikes, how do I choose between the available brands? [more inside]
posted by Orinda
on May 14, 2012 -
12 answers

I am looking for a cross-country bike for use in a mountain-y watershed area. I am not a skilled or graceful descender, and there is going to be a lot of descending. Bike shop guy, who I have known for a while and trust, says hydraulic discs are the way to go because of how they handle heat. Is this really a factor I should account for? [more inside]
posted by everichon
on Apr 21, 2011 -
13 answers

What's the best way to get across midtown Manhattan by bicycle? Looking at bike maps of the city, it seems there's no bike lanes going East-West between the lower 20s and wayy up in 90th St (on the east side) and 77th St (on the west side) Assuming I want to get across town by travelling in the 50s (or reasonably close to that), which street(s) should I take for the safest, least traffic-rife ride?
posted by Greg Nog
on May 20, 2010 -
7 answers

I have a budget of $75-$100 for a bike headlight. I am seriously considering NiteRider's MiNewt-USB. Does anyone have any other recommendations, or anecdata about the MiNewt? [more inside]
posted by everichon
on Nov 6, 2008 -
19 answers

So I just bought myself a new single speed bike for my birthday. I'd like to get different bars, pedals, and saddle but need advice... I'm also curious if it's possible to remove the branding decals without damaging the frame... [more inside]
posted by dobbs
on May 1, 2008 -
19 answers

My daughter is 10 years old and has always been paralyzed with fear of riding a bike. Just recently she won a brand spanking new bike in a raffle in school. It's a 15 speed girl's bike with 26" tires. She is finally interested in riding. After buying the appropriate safety equipment, what can I do to help her learn? I learned at age 4 without training wheels; she thinks she wants them. What say you good folk? Any tips at all are appreciated.
posted by horseblind
on May 2, 2005 -
26 answers

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